Daniel J. DeRienzo

Daniel J. DeRienzo is an experienced Arizona Attorney with more than 35 years of legal practice and over 25 years of law office management experience. His practice areas include divorce, family law, estate planning, wills, trusts, and criminal law, with a strong background in litigation and courtroom advocacy.

Daniel earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Arizona in 1985. His legal education provided the foundation for a career spanning prosecution, public defense, statutory development, private practice, and client representation in complex criminal, family, and estate matters throughout Arizona and beyond. He began his legal career prosecuting securities fraud for the Arizona Corporation Commission. He later served as a Deputy County Attorney in Pinal County, where he prosecuted DUI cases, felonies, and homicide matters, gaining extensive trial experience that strengthened his ability to evaluate cases from multiple perspectives.

In 1991, Daniel was appointed Chief Public Defender for the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, where he worked with attorneys nationwide and helped draft CNMI statutes. In 1998, he established the first Yavapai County Public Defender’s Office and served as Chief Public Defender until 2004. Since 2004, he has been in private practice, representing clients in family law, divorce, estate planning, wills, trusts, and criminal defense. His background in prosecution and public defense allows him to prepare thoroughly, explain legal options clearly, and guide clients through difficult decisions with practical legal judgment.

Daniel J. DeRienzo has received the Arizona Attorneys for Criminal Justice William Rothstein Award and the Gideon Award, the highest honor from the Arizona Public Defender’s Association. He also served as the first President of the Arizona Public Defender’s Association and has been active with criminal defense and drug court organizations. He helps clients facing life-changing legal issues with professionalism, preparation, and steady advocacy. Whether addressing criminal charges, family disputes, parenting matters, or estate planning needs, he works to protect clients’ rights, reduce uncertainty, and help individuals and families move forward with confidence.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Law Office of Daniel J. DeRienzo
• Member, Arizona State Bar Association
• Past President, Arizona Public Defender’s Association
• Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys

Licensed State

• Arizona

Education

• University of Arizona College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Arizona
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges